Combat Stress hosts business symposium

Educating businesses about the mental health treatment and support available to the veterans they employ is the focus of this year’s The Military Mind business symposium, sponsored by Thales.

Hosted by Combat Stress, the UK’s leading mental health charity for veterans, the event on 9 May coincides with Mental Health Awareness Week and will explain how and why some ex-service personnel and reservists develop mental health issues, and what their employers can do to help support them at work.

The majority of service personnel make a successful transition to civilian life after leaving the Armed Forces. However, a significant minority can struggle due to mental health conditions including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, depression and anxiety. With the right support they can lead fulfilling lives and bring great value to the workplace.

Experts in the field of military mental health, as well as those in the corporate sector who employ veterans, will join clinical specialists from Combat Stress to explain the opportunities and challenges for businesses with employees who have served in the Armed Forces.

Sue Freeth, Chief Executive of Combat Stress, said: “Earlier this year Prime Minister Theresa May used her first policy announcement to call for more to be done to support mental wellbeing in the workplace, noting that it improves motivation, reduces sick leave and drives better productivity.

“Veterans bring enormous value to the workplace but some can require additional support due to their mental health. It can be difficult for employers to know what help is available and how to access it. Through this symposium we will educate businesses about the range of mental health services veterans can refer to, and thereby ensure employers are fully equipped to support their ex-service employees.”

Thales UK, a leader in Aerospace, Defence, Security and Transportation, and part of Thales Group, is sponsoring the symposium. Mike Seabrook, Company Secretary of Thales in the UK, said: “We know from our own experience that veterans can be a great asset to the workforce. This symposium is a chance for business leaders to hear about the advantages of hiring veterans and learn about the issues they may come up against from those transitioning to civilian roles, while also gaining valuable insight into the support available to them.”

The Military Mind symposium will take place from 9am to 2.30pm at 1 America Square, London EC3. The event is free. Speakers include:

Dr Walter Busuttil: Director Medical Services at Combat Stress

Dr Dominic Murphy: Senior Clinical Lecturer at Combat Stress

Professor Sir Simon Wessely: President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists; Professor at the Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London; and Trustee of Combat Stress